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Alternative names Return to top
PMLDefinition Return to top
PML is a rare inflammatory disorder that leads to loss of myelin in multiple areas within the white matter of the brain. It is a virus-induced disease seen in people with poor immune function (immunocompromised).
Symptoms and signs include loss of coordination, clumsiness, memory loss, progressively worsening weakness of the legs, and to a lesser extent, arms.
Other signs may include loss of language capability (aphasia), visual field defects, and headaches. The greatest risk is being immunosuppressed.
The causal virus, JC virus, is a common resident in most adults, but it triggers loss of myelin in those whose immune function is deficient. It occurs in 4% of adult individuals with AIDS.
Update Date: 4/22/2004 Updated by: Joseph V. Campellone, M.D., Division of Neurology, Cooper Hospital/University Medical Center, Camden, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |